Side effects of chlorthalidone 25 mg. Chlorthalidone 25mg: Comprehensive Guide to Side Effects, Dosage, and Uses

10.04.202208.06.2023 by alexxlab

How does chlorthalidone 25mg work. What are the common side effects of chlorthalidone. Who should avoid taking chlorthalidone. How should chlorthalidone be taken for optimal results. What precautions should be taken when using chlorthalidone.

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Understanding Chlorthalidone: A Powerful Diuretic for Hypertension and Edema

Chlorthalidone is a widely prescribed medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as diuretics. It’s primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and edema, a condition characterized by fluid retention in the body. As a generic drug, chlorthalidone is often a cost-effective option for patients, as it typically comes with a lower price tag compared to brand-name alternatives.

How does chlorthalidone work? The medication functions by promoting the excretion of excess water and salt through urine. This mechanism not only helps in reducing blood pressure but also alleviates fluid buildup, effectively addressing edema caused by various conditions such as heart, liver, or kidney disease.

Key Features of Chlorthalidone

Available only as a generic drug
Administered as an oral tablet
Used to treat hypertension and edema
Can be combined with other blood pressure medications
Belongs to the diuretic class of drugs

Dosage and Administration: Optimizing Chlorthalidone Treatment

Proper dosage and administration of chlorthalidone are crucial for achieving optimal therapeutic results while minimizing the risk of side effects. The typical starting dose for treating hypertension is 12.5 mg to 25 mg once daily, which can be adjusted based on the patient’s response and individual needs.

Is there a specific time of day when chlorthalidone should be taken? While the medication can be taken at any time, many healthcare providers recommend taking it in the morning to avoid nighttime urination that could disrupt sleep patterns. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions regarding dosage and timing.

Tips for Taking Chlorthalidone

Take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels
Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water
Can be taken with or without food
Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless instructed by your doctor
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to the time for your next dose

Common Side Effects: What to Expect When Taking Chlorthalidone

Like all medications, chlorthalidone can cause side effects. While not everyone experiences these effects, it’s important to be aware of potential reactions. Most side effects are mild and tend to subside as your body adjusts to the medication.

What are the most common side effects of chlorthalidone? The most frequently reported side effects include:

Gastrointestinal issues (nausea, vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea, constipation)
Loss of appetite
Dizziness
Headache
Increased thirst

These side effects are generally mild and often resolve on their own within a few days to a couple of weeks. However, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects: Recognizing and Responding to Potential Complications

While less common, chlorthalidone can occasionally cause more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. Recognizing these symptoms early is crucial for preventing potential complications.

When should you seek immediate medical help while taking chlorthalidone? Contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency care if you experience any of the following:

Severe skin rash with peeling skin
Difficulty breathing or swallowing
Unusual bleeding or bruising
Persistent sore throat and fever
Symptoms of low potassium levels (extreme thirst, fatigue, muscle pains, irregular heartbeat)

These symptoms could indicate a severe allergic reaction, blood disorder, or electrolyte imbalance, all of which require prompt medical intervention.

Drug Interactions: Navigating Potential Conflicts with Chlorthalidone

Chlorthalidone can interact with various medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. Understanding these interactions is crucial for safe and effective treatment.

Which medications are known to interact with chlorthalidone? Some common drug interactions include:

Other blood pressure medications (ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta-blockers)
Diabetes medications
NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
Lithium
Cholestyramine and colestipol

It’s essential to inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you’re taking to avoid potential interactions.

Managing Drug Interactions

Keep an up-to-date list of all medications and supplements
Inform all healthcare providers about your chlorthalidone use
Do not start or stop any medications without consulting your doctor
Be aware of potential signs of drug interactions
Attend regular check-ups to monitor your response to treatment

Special Precautions: Ensuring Safe Use of Chlorthalidone

Certain individuals may need to exercise caution when using chlorthalidone or may not be suitable candidates for this medication. Understanding these special precautions is vital for safe and effective treatment.

Who should avoid or use chlorthalidone with caution? The following groups should consult their healthcare provider before using chlorthalidone:

Pregnant or breastfeeding women
Individuals with kidney or liver disease
Those with a history of gout
Patients with diabetes
Individuals with known electrolyte imbalances

Your doctor will weigh the potential benefits against the risks when prescribing chlorthalidone in these situations.

Additional Precautions

Regular blood tests to monitor electrolyte levels and kidney function
Avoiding excessive sun exposure due to increased skin sensitivity
Maintaining adequate hydration, especially in hot weather or during exercise
Being cautious when standing up quickly to prevent dizziness
Avoiding alcohol, as it may increase the risk of side effects

Long-Term Use: Managing Chronic Conditions with Chlorthalidone

For many patients, chlorthalidone is prescribed as a long-term treatment for chronic conditions such as hypertension. Understanding the implications of extended use is crucial for maintaining health and preventing complications.

How does long-term use of chlorthalidone affect the body? While generally safe for extended periods, long-term use may require:

Regular monitoring of blood pressure and electrolyte levels
Periodic assessment of kidney function
Possible adjustments in dosage over time
Vigilance for any new or worsening side effects
Consideration of potential nutrient deficiencies, particularly potassium

Your healthcare provider will work with you to ensure the continued safety and efficacy of your treatment plan.

Tips for Successful Long-Term Management

Maintain open communication with your healthcare team
Adhere to scheduled follow-up appointments and tests
Report any new symptoms or concerns promptly
Consider lifestyle modifications to support medication effectiveness
Stay informed about your condition and treatment options

Lifestyle Considerations: Maximizing the Benefits of Chlorthalidone Therapy

While chlorthalidone is an effective medication for managing hypertension and edema, combining it with healthy lifestyle choices can enhance its benefits and potentially reduce the need for higher doses or additional medications.

What lifestyle changes can complement chlorthalidone therapy? Consider incorporating the following habits:

Adopting a low-sodium diet to support blood pressure control
Engaging in regular physical activity as approved by your doctor
Maintaining a healthy weight
Limiting alcohol consumption
Quitting smoking, if applicable

These lifestyle modifications can work synergistically with chlorthalidone to improve overall cardiovascular health and treatment outcomes.

Dietary Considerations

Chlorthalidone’s diuretic effect may influence your body’s electrolyte balance. To support optimal health while on this medication, consider the following dietary tips:

Increase intake of potassium-rich foods (bananas, sweet potatoes, leafy greens)
Ensure adequate calcium intake through dairy products or fortified alternatives
Stay well-hydrated, especially in hot weather or during physical activity
Limit processed foods, which are often high in sodium
Consider consulting a registered dietitian for personalized advice

Remember to discuss any significant dietary changes with your healthcare provider, as they may affect your medication needs or overall treatment plan.

Alternative Treatments: Exploring Options Beyond Chlorthalidone

While chlorthalidone is an effective treatment for many patients with hypertension and edema, it’s not the only option available. Understanding alternative treatments can help you make informed decisions about your healthcare in consultation with your medical team.

What are some alternatives to chlorthalidone for treating hypertension and edema? Depending on your specific condition and overall health, your doctor might consider:

Other types of diuretics (loop diuretics, potassium-sparing diuretics)
ACE inhibitors or ARBs
Calcium channel blockers
Beta-blockers
Combination medications that include multiple active ingredients

Each of these alternatives has its own set of benefits and potential side effects, and the choice of medication depends on individual factors such as age, overall health, and the presence of other medical conditions.

Non-Pharmacological Approaches

In some cases, non-drug approaches may be used alongside or instead of medications like chlorthalidone. These can include:

Dietary modifications, such as the DASH diet for hypertension
Stress reduction techniques like meditation or yoga
Increased physical activity and exercise programs
Weight loss interventions for overweight or obese individuals
Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake

These lifestyle interventions can be powerful tools in managing blood pressure and fluid retention, potentially reducing the need for medication or allowing for lower doses.

Patient Experiences: Real-World Insights on Chlorthalidone Use

While clinical data provides valuable information about chlorthalidone’s efficacy and side effects, patient experiences can offer unique insights into the day-to-day realities of using this medication. Understanding these perspectives can help set realistic expectations and provide comfort to those starting treatment.

How do patients typically describe their experience with chlorthalidone? Common themes in patient reports include:

Initial adjustment period with increased urination
Gradual improvement in blood pressure readings
Variable experiences with side effects
Appreciation for the medication’s effectiveness in managing edema
Challenges with remembering to take the medication daily

It’s important to remember that individual experiences can vary widely, and what works well for one person may not be ideal for another.

Tips from Long-Term Users

Patients who have been using chlorthalidone for extended periods often develop strategies to optimize their treatment. Some helpful tips include:

Using pill organizers or smartphone apps to manage medication schedules
Staying well-hydrated to counteract increased urination
Monitoring blood pressure at home to track progress
Communicating openly with healthcare providers about any concerns
Joining support groups or online forums to share experiences and advice

These real-world insights can complement medical advice and help new users navigate their treatment journey more effectively.

Future Developments: The Evolving Landscape of Hypertension Treatment

While chlorthalidone has been a staple in hypertension treatment for decades, ongoing research continues to explore new therapies and refine existing treatments. Staying informed about these developments can help patients and healthcare providers make the best decisions about long-term treatment plans.

What are some emerging trends in hypertension treatment that might impact chlorthalidone use? Current areas of research include:

Development of new classes of antihypertensive medications
Exploration of personalized medicine approaches based on genetic profiles
Investigation of novel drug delivery systems for improved efficacy and reduced side effects
Studies on combination therapies that may enhance treatment outcomes
Research into non-pharmacological interventions, including digital health solutions

While these developments are exciting, it’s important to note that well-established medications like chlorthalidone remain crucial in the management of hypertension for many patients.

Staying Informed

For patients interested in staying up-to-date with the latest developments in hypertension treatment:

Discuss new treatment options with your healthcare provider during regular check-ups
Follow reputable health news sources for updates on medical research
Consider participating in clinical trials if appropriate and available
Join patient advocacy groups that provide education on hypertension management
Attend health fairs or seminars focused on cardiovascular health

By staying informed and engaged, patients can play an active role in their treatment decisions and overall health management.

Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More

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Why it’s used

Chlorthalidone is used to treat high blood pressure. It’s also used to treat edema. This is swelling caused by fluid buildup in your body. Edema may be caused by conditions such as heart, liver, or kidney disease.

Chlorthalidone may be taken in combination with other blood pressure medications.

How it works

Chlorthalidone belongs to a class of drugs called diuretics. A class of drugs is a group of medications that work in a similar way. These drugs are often used to treat similar conditions.

Chlorthalidone makes your body get rid of extra water and salt through the urine. This helps lower blood pressure. It also helps decrease fluid buildup, which reduces swelling.

Chlorthalidone oral tablet may cause drowsiness. It may also cause other side effects.

More common side effects

The more common side effects that can occur with chlorthalidone oral tablet include:

stomach problems, such as:
- nausea
- vomiting
- stomach cramping
- diarrhea
- constipation
- loss of appetite
- dizziness
- headache
- increased thirst

If these effects are mild, they may go away within a few days or a couple of weeks. If they’re more severe or don’t go away, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Serious side effects

Call your doctor right away if you have serious side effects. Call 911 if your symptoms feel life threatening or if you think you’re having a medical emergency. Serious side effects and their symptoms can include the following:

sore throat and fever
unusual bleeding or bruising
severe skin rash with peeling skin
trouble breathing or swallowing
reduced potassium levels, with symptoms such as:
- extreme thirst
- tiredness
- drowsiness
- restlessness
- muscle pains or cramps
- nausea or vomiting
- increased heart rate

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always discuss possible side effects with a healthcare professional who knows your medical history.

Chlorthalidone oral tablet can interact with other medications, vitamins, or herbs you may be taking. An interaction is when a substance changes the way a drug works. This can be harmful or prevent the drug from working well.

To help avoid interactions, your doctor should manage all of your medications carefully. Be sure to tell your doctor about all medications, vitamins, or herbs you’re taking. To find out how this drug might interact with something else you’re taking, talk with your doctor or pharmacist.

Examples of drugs that can cause interactions with chlorthalidone are listed below.

Blood pressure drugs

When chlorthalidone is taken with other medications that lower your blood pressure, your blood pressure may become dangerously low. Examples of these drugs include:

angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, such as:
- benazepril
- captopril
- enalapril
- fosinopril
- moexipril
- perindopril
- quinapril
- ramipril
- trandolapril
angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), such as:
- irbesartan
- losartan
- olmesartan
- telmisartan
- valsartan
beta-blockers, such as:
- acebutolol
- atenolol
- betaxolol
- bisoprolol
- metoprolol
- nadolol
- nebivolol
- penbutolol
- pindolol
- propranolol
- timolol
calcium channel blockers, such as:
- amlodipine
- felodipine
- nicardipine
- nifedipine
loop diuretics, such as:
- bumetanide
- furosemide
- indapamide
- torsemide
potassium-sparing diuretics, such as:
- eplerenone
- spironolactone
- triamterene

Diabetes drugs

Your doctor may need to adjust the dose of your diabetes medication. Chlorthalidone may keep some diabetes drugs from working well. Examples of these drugs include:

pramlintide
metformin
exenatide
liraglutide
lixisenatide
saxagliptin
sitagliptin
insulin
nateglinide
repaglinide
glimepiride
glipizide
glyburide
canagliflozin
dapagliflozin
empagliflozin
pioglitazone
rosiglitazone

Digoxin

Digoxin is used to treat certain heart conditions, such as irregular heart rhythms or heart failure. Taking digoxin with chlorthalidone may change the amount of electrolytes in your blood. Your doctor will monitor your electrolytes closely and adjust your medication doses if needed.

Lithium

Lithiumis used to treat certain mental health conditions, such as bipolar disorder. Taking lithium with chlorthalidone may cause a buildup of lithium in your body. Therefore, your doctor may need to adjust your dosage of lithium while you take chlorthalidone.

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs interact differently in each person, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible interactions. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always speak with your healthcare professional about possible interactions with all prescription drugs, vitamins, herbs and supplements, and over-the-counter drugs that you are taking.

This drug comes with several warnings.

Allergy warning

Chlorthalidone can cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms include:

trouble breathing
swelling of your throat or tongue
hives

If you have an allergic reaction, call your doctor or local poison control center right away. If your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.

Don’t take this drug again if you’ve ever had an allergic reaction to it or sulfa drugs. Taking it again could be fatal (cause death).

Alcohol interaction warning

Having drinks that contain alcohol while taking chlorthalidone can increase your risk of dizziness.

Warnings for people with certain health conditions

For people with kidney disease: Chlorthalidone can make your kidney problems worse. Talk with your doctor about whether taking this drug is safe for you.

For people with liver disease: Chlorthalidone can cause changes in your fluid and electrolyte levels. This may even lead to coma. Talk with your doctor about whether taking this drug is safe for you.

For people with gout: This drug may cause gout episodes. Before taking this medication, make sure your doctor knows that you have gout.

For people with lupus: Chlorthalidone may make your condition worse. Before taking this medication, make sure your doctor knows that you have lupus.

For people with allergies or asthma: Chlorthalidone can cause a sensitivity reaction. Before taking this medication, make sure your doctor knows that you have allergies or asthma.

For people with low potassium: This drug can cause low potassium levels. If you already have low potassium levels, your potassium could become too low.

For people with diabetes: Drugs used to treat diabetes may not work as well when taken with chlorthalidone. This could cause higher blood sugar levels. Your doctor may adjust the dose of your diabetes medication.

Warnings for other groups

For pregnant women: Chlorthalidone is a pregnancy category B drug. That means two things:

Studies of the drug in pregnant animals haven’t shown risk to the fetus.
There aren’t enough studies done in pregnant women to show the drug poses a risk to the fetus.

Tell your doctor if you’re pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Chlorthalidone should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus.

For women who are breastfeeding: Chlorthalidone may pass into breast milk and cause serious effects in a child who is breastfed.

You and your doctor may need to decide if you’ll take chlorthalidone or breastfeed.

For seniors: Older adults may process drugs more slowly. A normal adult dose may cause levels of this drug to be higher than normal in your body. If you’re a senior, you may need a lower dose or a different schedule.

For children: This medication hasn’t been studied in children. It shouldn’t be used in people under the age of 18 years.

This dosage information is for chlorthalidone oral tablet. All possible dosages and forms may not be included here. Your dose, form, and how often you take it will depend on:

your age
the condition being treated
how severe your condition is
other medical conditions you have
how you react to the first dose

Forms and strengths

Generic: Chlorthalidone

Form: oral tablet
Strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg

Dosage for high blood pressure (hypertension)

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Typical starting dosage: 25 mg taken once per day.
Dosage increases: Your doctor may increase your once-daily dose to 50 mg and then to 100 mg if additional control is required.
Maintenance dosage: Maintenance doses may be lower than initial doses. Your doctor should adjust your dosage based on how your body responds to the medication.
Maximum dosage: 100 mg once daily.

Child dosage (ages 0–17 years)

This medication hasn’t been studied in children. It shouldn’t be used in people under the age of 18 years.

Senior dosage (ages 65 years and older)

Older adults may process drugs more slowly. A normal adult dose may cause levels of this drug to be higher than normal in your body. If you’re a senior, you may need a lower dose or a different schedule.

Dosage for fluid retention (edema)

Adult dosage (ages 18–64 years)

Typical starting dosage: 50–100 mg taken once per day, or 100 mg taken every other day. Some people may need 150–200 mg taken once per day or every other day.
Maximum dosage: 200 mg per day.

Child dosage (ages 0–17 years)

This medication hasn’t been studied in children. It shouldn’t be used in people under the age of 18 years.

Senior dosage (ages 65 years and older)

Disclaimer: Our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. However, because drugs affect each person differently, we cannot guarantee that this list includes all possible dosages. This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Always to speak with your doctor or pharmacist about dosages that are right for you.

For high blood pressure, chlorthalidone oral tablet is used for long-term treatment. For edema, it’s used for short-term or long-term treatment. This drug comes with serious risks if you don’t take it as prescribed.

If you stop taking the drug suddenly or don’t take it at all:

For high blood pressure: Your blood pressure may stay high. This raises your risk for heart attack or stroke.
For edema: Your swelling and fluid buildup won’t decrease. This can lead to serious problems, such as pain, infections, leg ulcers, or blood clots.

If you miss doses or don’t take the drug on schedule: Your medication may not work as well or may stop working completely. For this drug to work well, a certain amount needs to be in your body at all times.

If you take too much: If you take too much chlorthalidone, you may have these symptoms:

nausea
weakness
dizziness
extreme thirst
confusion
seizures

If you think you’ve taken too much of this drug, call your doctor or seek guidance from the American Association of Poison Control Centers at 800-222-1222 or through their online tool. But if your symptoms are severe, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room right away.

What to do if you miss a dose: If you forget to take your dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s just a few hours until the time for your next dose, then wait and only take one dose at that time. Never try to catch up by taking two doses at once. This could cause serious side effects.

How to tell if the drug is working:

For high blood pressure: Your blood pressure should go down. Your doctor can check your blood pressure, or you can check it at home using a blood pressure monitor.
For edema: Your swelling or fluid retention should decrease.

Keep these considerations in mind if your doctor prescribes chlorthalidone oral tablet for you.

General

Chlorthalidone should be taken with food.
Chlorthalidone should be taken in the morning. Take it at the same time each day.
You can crush or cut the tablet.

Storage

Store at a temperature between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
Don’t freeze chlorthalidone.
Keep it away from light.
Don’t store this medication in moist or damp areas, such as bathrooms.

Refills

A prescription for this medication is refillable. You shouldn’t need a new prescription for this medication to be refilled. Your doctor will write the number of refills authorized on your prescription.

Travel

When traveling with your medication:

Always carry your medication with you, such as in your carry-on bag.
Don’t worry about airport X-ray machines. They can’t hurt your medication.
You may need to show airport staff the pharmacy label for your medication. Always carry the original prescription-labeled container with you.
Don’t put this medication in your car’s glove compartment or leave it in the car. Be sure to avoid doing this when the weather is very hot or very cold.

Self-management

You may need to check your blood pressure at home. You should keep a log with the date, time of day, and your blood pressure readings. Bring this log with you to your doctor appointments. You may need to buy a blood pressure monitor. These are available at most pharmacies and online.

Shop online for a blood pressure monitor.

Clinical monitoring

While being treated with chlorthalidone, your doctor will check your blood pressure and weight. Your doctor may also do blood tests to check your potassium level.

Your diet

Your doctor may have you follow a specific diet, such as a low-salt or high-potassium diet. Foods high in potassium include prunes, bananas, and orange juice.

Sun sensitivity

Chlorthalidone may make your skin more sensitive to sunlight. You should wear protective clothing, sunscreen, and limit time out in the sun while you’re taking this drug.

Availability

Not every pharmacy stocks this drug. When filling your prescription, be sure to call ahead to make sure your pharmacy carries it.

Insurance

Many insurance companies require a prior authorization for this drug. This means your doctor will need to get approval from your insurance company before your insurance company will pay for the prescription.

There are other drugs available to treat your condition. Some may be better suited for you than others. Talk with your doctor about other drug options that may work for you.

Disclaimer: Healthline has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up-to-date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or other healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.

Chlorthalidone Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing

Uses

Chlorthalidone is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. It is also used to reduce extra salt and water in the body caused by conditions such as heart failure, liver disease, and kidney disease. Decreasing extra salt and water in the body helps to decrease swelling (edema) and breathing problems caused by fluid in the lungs. Chlorthalidone is a “water pill” (diuretic). It increases the amount of urine you make, especially when you first start the medication. It also helps to relax the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily.

How to use Chlorthalidone

Take this medication by mouth with food as directed by your doctor, usually once daily in the morning. It is best to avoid taking this medication within 4 hours of your bedtime to avoid having to get up to urinate. Consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have questions about your dosing schedule.

The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time each day. Keep taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.

If you also take certain drugs to lower your cholesterol (bile acid-binding resins such as cholestyramine or colestipol), take this product at least 2 hours before or at least 4 hours after these medications.

Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (such as your blood pressure readings remain high or increase).

Side Effects

Dizziness, lightheadedness, or stomach upset may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.

To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.

This medication may cause dehydration and electrolyte imbalance. Tell your doctor right away if you have any symptoms of dehydration or electrolyte imbalance, including: extreme thirst, very dry mouth, muscle cramps, weakness, fast/irregular heartbeat, confusion.

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fainting, toe/joint pain, signs of kidney problems (such as change in the amount of urine).

Get medical help right away if you have any very serious side effects, including: decrease in vision, eye pain.

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.

This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.

In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.

Precautions

Before taking chlorthalidone, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, gout, lupus, untreated mineral imbalance (such as low potassium).

This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).

Too much sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may cause dehydration and increase your risk of dizziness or lightheadedness. Report prolonged diarrhea or vomiting to your doctor. Be sure to drink enough fluids to prevent dehydration unless your doctor directs you otherwise.

Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).

If you have diabetes, this product may affect your blood sugar. Check your blood sugar regularly as directed and share the results with your doctor. Tell your doctor right away if you have symptoms of high blood sugar such as increased thirst/urination. Your doctor may need to adjust your diabetes medication, exercise program, or diet.

This medication may reduce the potassium levels in your blood. Ask your doctor about adding potassium to your diet. A potassium supplement may be prescribed by your doctor.

This medication may make you more sensitive to the sun. Limit your time in the sun. Avoid tanning booths and sunlamps. Use sunscreen and wear protective clothing when outdoors. Tell your doctor right away if you get sunburned or have skin blisters/redness.

Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this product, especially dizziness.

During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.

This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.

Interactions

Overdose

If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center. Symptoms of overdose may include: severe dizziness, fainting.

Do not share this medication with others.

Lifestyle changes that may help this medication work better include stress reduction programs, exercise, and dietary changes. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you.

Lab and/or medical tests (including kidney function, blood mineral levels such as potassium) should be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.

Check your blood pressure regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your own blood pressure at home, and share the results with your doctor.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose. Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.

Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.